The new arts trail encourages people to work towards their 10,000 steps a day while discovering new art and places in the city.

A new arts trail that encourages walkers to get their 10,000 steps a day has been revealed as part of Coventry Biennial of Contemporary Art this week.

The free wander offers walkers the chance to explore Coventry City Centre, the biennial venues and to discover hidden pieces of art as they go.

The walk was inspired by local artist and biennial contributor, Adele Mary Reed. Adele has visited five of Coventry’s twin cities, photographing scenes which can be seen as part of Coventry Biennial: The Twin in the exhibition at the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum. The Herbert is just one recommended starting point on the wander map.

Whilst photographing the cities, Adele often came across cats sitting in windows and this became an unofficial artwork of its own. These images of cats in windows have now been placed in city-centre locations, which can be spotted whilst taking part in the walk.

Artist Adele Mary Reed said, “Whilst taking long unplanned walks in urban and suburban areas of five of Coventry’s European twin cities to create the project ‘Five Derives’, I occasionally, inevitably found a cat in a window.

“Travelling alone, they became almost friendly, reassuring omens, which I captured amongst my studies of buildings and side streets. I hope people of all ages have fun spotting them.”

Ryan Hughes, Coventry Biennial Director said, “We know the positive effects art can have on wellbeing and we also know the difference that getting out and hitting the recommended target of 10,000 steps a day can make.

“It’s great to have the support of the local businesses and Coventry City Council’s Sport and Culture Innovation Fund to ensure that as many families and people as possible can get out and make the most of the wander in the year of Sport.”

Those taking part can expect to pound the pavements anywhere from City Arcade to Far Gosford Street. Maps can be picked up from Coventry Artspace and Biennial Exhibition venue, The Row, as well as the Herbert Art Gallery.

The Wander is generously supported by the European City of Sport 2019 Sport and Culture Innovation Fund.